Why take a tour?

Going on a tour can be a great experience. I am going to list a few scenarios when it is ideal to consider a tour and when it may be a good idea to consider another option like going on your own! Travel is a unique experience and is NOT enjoyed by all of us the same way.

Here are a few of the scenarios I can think of, maybe you can help by adding a few extras you know about in the comments field.



- When not to take a tour? - if you are an adventurer, lone rider and enjoy the uncertainty of cruising around a known city. If you don't want to meet more people and if you already know enough about the city. Tours aren't for all of us! its normal!


When is it a good idea?

- First days in a city - A hop-on-hop-off tour is great in this case. These tours typically consist of you buying a pass that is valid for one or two days and allows you to go around the city by hopping-on and hopping-off different tour busses that have the same route and belong to the same company. An example of these are the big red busses in London. Now a days you are able to find these busses in almost every major touristic city in the world.

- Day trip to a nearby city - Who wants the trouble of dealing with maps and foreign roads? Renting a car may be an alternative for all of you adventurers and freedom-travelers, but for most of us looking to relax and enjoy our vacations (without fighting with our wives over asking directions), it is a great opportunity to hop on a bus and be guided by an expert. With gas costs, rental costs, parking costs and how tiring driving the distance may be... arranging a tour may be a great idea for you!

- historical importance and/or specific interest in a particular city? - Going on a tour will, ideally, result in you being toured around by an expert. This may give you the best information about the city and solve those tough questions you couldn't find the answer to or need more help understanding. A tour guide may bring that fresh practical perspective that allows you to learn more about a city.

- Meet other tourists! - A tour may be a great opportunity to meet others in your same situation. Arrange activities and lunches/dinners with other tourists... who knows? maybe you'll make lasting friends!

- Don't miss a thing! -  Guides are locals and also experts! Don't hesitate to ask us questions and talk to us a little about the kind of things you are interested in about the city you are visiting Sit, participate, and filter through what the city has to offer you!

What other things can you think about? 
What good experiences have you had by taking tours?